Richard Haynes PTA/CPT - 9/24/2008

Question
Hello!
I am 22 years old and have had strange unexplained problems with my wrists! They 'go out' several times a week, depending on my activities. These activities are very minor which leave me without the use of my wrists. For example, lifting a gallon of milk without 'preparing' for it will do it. Or if I am sitting on the ground and decide to get up and push off the floor with my palm, my wrist will go out. My doctor said I just have weak wrist and I should use small weights to strengthen them but lifting them made them go out as well. The pain is described as major aches and feels like an injury every time. Moving my wrist(s) is totally out of commission for about 5-10 hours and up to a week. Both wrists have this same condition...
Any ideas?

Answer
Hi and thanks for the question. This does sound like a problem with your muscle flexor and extensor strength surrounding your wrist.
Now if you had a full dislocation of the wrist that would be another matter as it would or could create nerve damage.

I would see an orthopedic doctor if you haven't already and see what the problem is. They may either x-ray the wrist or run an MRI if needed to check the soft tissue.

They may refer you to a local hand specialist for further review if needed or you do not get an answer that you feel is accurate.
Could have ligament or tendon problem with them. But this is an unusal situation you present here and would like to know how long this has been going on. previous injury or a congenital problem?

The hand specialist would be the way to go someone that specializes with hands and wrists or an orthopedic doctor for another opinion.

Good Luck
Richard Haynes
www.totaljointfitness.com